Kargil, Apr 03: In a bid to strengthen grassroots disaster preparedness and response in Ladakh’s Kargil district, Jamiat Ul Ulama Isna Asharia Kargil Ladakh (JUIAK) on Thursday formally launched the Al-Mahdi (A.S) Scouts Disaster Response Force, a voluntary initiative driven by trained youth and former servicemen.
The programme was attended by Executive Councillor Aga Syed Mujtaba as Chief Guest, while Deputy Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, LAHDC Kargil, Rakesh Kumar, was present as Guest of Honour. Senior Superintendent of Police Nitin Yadav participated as Special Guest. Several senior officials, including the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Additional Superintendent of Police, councillors, religious scholars and members of civil society, were also present.
The newly constituted force aims to assist the administration during emergencies such as natural disasters, fire incidents and road accidents—recurring challenges in Kargil owing to its rugged terrain and severe weather conditions.
Introducing the initiative, project incharge Javed Ahmad outlined the objectives of the Al-Mahdi Scouts, emphasising its role as a support system for official agencies during crisis situations. He said the force would function as a coordinated volunteer network capable of responding swiftly to emergencies at the community level.
Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner and the SSP commended the initiative, noting that the inclusion of ex-servicemen trained by the Indian Army lends operational strength and discipline to the force. They observed that such trained volunteers could play a crucial role in bridging gaps during critical response periods.
The President of JUIAK Ladakh, while speaking on the occasion, stated that the initiative would be expanded gradually with zonal units across the district. He added that Al-Muntazir Pashkum has already joined as an affiliated branch for the Shargole zone, marking the beginning of decentralised expansion.
Providing context to the initiative, Javed Ahmad said the team behind the Al-Mahdi Scouts has been engaged in rescue and community service for nearly eight years under the banner of the Al-Reza Rescue Team. He added that the formal launch allows them to utilise nearly two decades of collective experience in a more structured manner for public welfare.
Several councillors present at the event announced financial contributions on the spot to support the functioning of the volunteer force and assured continued backing for its activities.
Organisers expressed confidence that the Al-Mahdi Scouts will work in close coordination with the district administration to improve response mechanisms for avalanches, landslides and other emergencies that frequently affect the region.
The initiative reflects an increasing reliance on community-driven models of disaster response in remote and high-altitude areas, where timely intervention often determines outcomes.
